Global Building Materials Industry

The global building materials market (as a large part of the construction industry) encompasses cement, brick, concrete, sand, aggregates and gravel manufacturers. Among the most-used building materials are steel, glass, wood, plastics and cement. The industry supplies related industries, including wiring manufacturers and furniture manufacturers.

The building materials market is fuelled in a large part by green building, with this market segment worth over $60 billion in the US. Green building is particularly popular in the residential market, lead by demand for such products as cork, bamboo and woven flooring. Concrete production from recycled materials is also a dynamic growth area within the industry, along with wood from sustainable forests, energy-efficient lighting fixtures and water-efficient plumbing fixtures.

The EU is the leading region in the green building materials market, followed by the US. Emerging markets are expected to show stronger growth, with Asia-Pacific taking the lead. Rising living standards, environmental concern, falling costs and greater efficiency will all drive the green building materials market. Green floor coverings represent the fastest-growing segment, with green concrete and green roofs following. Green flooring materials include bamboo, hardwood, cork and ceramic tile. Residential building represents the biggest market for green construction materials, with the non-residential building market seeing the fastest growth.

Key Building Materials Market Segments

Among the numerous building products used in the construction industry, the hydraulic cement market is expected to rise, according to Freedonia. Emerging markets will see growth fuelled by infrastructure investment while developed countries will experience slower growth. China represents around 50% of global demand for cement.

Combined, the US and Asia-Pacific represent around 80% of new product demand in the global drywall market, with the US seeing 9% yearly growth. Growing populations and urban housing demand will make Asia-Pacific the fastest-growing market in the next years.

Building Materials Market Outlook

Economic growth and rising population impact the construction materials market, and profitability will be curbed by high-energy prices. Economic slowdown is also likely to cut profit as companies absorb input costs they can pass on in a stronger economic climate.

Areas of innovation in the building materials industry include specialty materials, such as those used in storm rooms to provide shelter during extreme weather conditions. Much development is being carried out to limit thermal loss from residential buildings to boost energy efficiency. In addition, environmental regulations pertaining to building requirements and the need to cut energy costs will continue to fuel market growth, with smart buildings and green buildings set to see substantial expansion.

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